QPR football chief Les Ferdinand has urged his former Newcastle United fans to rally around Joelinton.

The Magpies hero is a fan of the struggling Brazilian.

Ferdinand said: "I've seen Joelinton play in the past - before he signed for Newcastle - and he's a modern-day centre forward who can play down the left and the right as well as through the centre.

"He actually prefers playing on the left or right rather than through the middle, but I accept that he has the look of a traditional centre forward.

"He's got all of the attributes to do well at St James's Park and I honestly believe he can come back stronger given the chance.

"There are huge pressures associated with wearing the number nine shirt for Newcastle when you consider the people who have worn it before.

"I hope the fans continue to get behind Joelinton and realise that just because he's not a traditional number nine it doesn't mean that he can't be a real asset. He works so hard for the team and deserves support."